When it comes to improving the air quality in your home, an HVAC air filter is an essential component. Not only does it remove impurities such as dust, pet dander, and bacteria from the air that flows through the system, but it also protects your HVAC system from damage. At the point where air enters the system, the filter traps any contaminants found in the air. This helps reduce airborne contaminants, including virus-containing particles.
Cleaning and filtering the air can also help keep your heating and cooling system running efficiently and last longer. The Minimum Efficiency Report Value (MERV) is the standard way to rate the efficiency and performance of HVAC filters. Compared to basic filters, medium-efficiency MERV filters such as the Nordic Pure MERV 12 can greatly reduce airborne dust, mold spores, pollen, and even smoke. This may help alleviate respiratory illnesses, according to an NIH review.
During a wildfire, you'll need to change your filters more often than you would under normal air conditions. MERVs range from 1 to 16, and a higher number indicates greater cleaning efficiency because they can filter smaller particles from the air. Routinely changing or cleaning the filters in your home's heating and air conditioning system helps units operate more efficiently and enjoy a longer lifespan. If you're concerned about mitigating COVID in your workplace and want to protect your employees and customers, there are specific types of air purifiers for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning that can help.
It's also smart to invite an HVAC expert to clean the ducts in your system if you suspect that your HVAC system isn't providing your home or business with optimal air quality.
